1. Symbolism:
* The Door: The door to Hyde's house symbolizes the dark and hidden aspects of human nature, as well as the barrier between Jekyll's respectable facade and his inner demons.
* The Transformation: Jekyll's transformation into Hyde symbolizes the duality of human nature, the struggle between good and evil, and the potential for darkness to reside within even the most seemingly virtuous individuals.
* The City of London: The foggy, grimy streets of London represent the moral decay and hidden secrets that permeate society.
2. Setting and Atmosphere:
* Gothic Setting: The story's setting in Victorian London, with its dark alleys, fog, and oppressive atmosphere, creates a sense of dread and mystery.
* Suspenseful Atmosphere: Stevenson uses vivid descriptions and dramatic language to build suspense and keep the reader on edge.
3. Point of View:
* Multiple Perspectives: The story is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, including Utterson, Enfield, Lanyon, and Jekyll, providing a fragmented and incomplete view of the events.
* Unreliable Narrator: The narrator, Utterson, is initially unaware of the full truth and his perceptions are often limited or biased.
4. Foreshadowing:
* Jekyll's Fear of Hyde: Jekyll's initial fear of Hyde foreshadows the danger he poses and the eventual consequences of his actions.
* Utterson's Suspicions: Utterson's growing suspicions about Jekyll's relationship with Hyde foreshadow the eventual revelation of the truth.
5. Irony:
* Jekyll's Reputation: Jekyll's reputation as a respected doctor and philanthropist is ironic, given his secret life as Hyde.
* Hyde's Appearance: Hyde's small, deformed appearance is ironic, as it represents the evil that lurks within the seemingly respectable Jekyll.
6. Allegory:
* The Duality of Human Nature: The story can be seen as an allegory for the duality of human nature, the constant struggle between good and evil within every individual.
* The Dangers of Repression: Jekyll's attempts to repress his dark impulses ultimately lead to his downfall.
7. Themes:
* The Nature of Good and Evil: The story explores the complexities of human nature, the potential for evil to reside in even the most virtuous individuals, and the consequences of repression.
* The Power of the Unconscious: The story highlights the power of the unconscious mind and its influence on behavior.
* The Importance of Morality: The story emphasizes the importance of morality and the consequences of transgression.